The Karate Kid (2010) PG - 4½ Stars

OMG, I hate when a movie can make me cry. Must be that tough exterior I try to uphold and this movie brought tears to my eyes anyway. Even though I loved the original 1984 version, this new story of a young boy being taught the ancient art of Kung Fu, feels so much realer. Great inspirational movie for the entire family. If my rating seems so much higher than others around, it's because this 54 year old woman really loved it. Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan really shine and work so well with one another. This is not your typical Jackie Chan Kung Fu movie with bodies flying all over the room or I wouldn't even rent it. Here he plays a much calm, patient teacher to a small non disciplined boy. The location is outstanding against the beautiful backdrop of Beijing China. Rent it - it's okay to admit you've seen it - you won't be sorry.

Sherry Parker's (Taraji P. Henson), job is relocating her to Beijing, China. She must pack up what seems important and convince her young son Dre (Jaden Smith), it's the right thing to do. Once in China, Sherry settles in well and Dre has some what made a new friend with a young girl Meiying (Wenwen Han), from his neighborhood. As he tries to speak with her, a little martial art punk, Cheng (Zhenwei Wang), knocks Dre to the ground. For the next few days, Cheng shows up in Dre's face no matter how hard he tries to avoid him. Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), is the maintenance man where the Parker's live and he over hears Dre complaining to his mother, he wants to go back home. Though Sherry doesn't get the real reason Dre wants to leave, luckily Mr. Han does. Cheng and his gang of his bullies, ambush Dre causing bodily harm. But Mr. Han steps to his rescue and with little effort dodges their blows and sends them running. It seems these boys are learning Kung Fu from a teacher who's attitude is, never stop, never let up. Dre is now eager to learn Kung Fu too and begs Mr. Han to show him some moves. Though Dre lacks focus, a lot of hard work, dedication and the teachings from Mr. Han, Dre begins to learn the true respect of self control and meditation. But it seems the only way to stop Cheng from pushing him around is to stand up to him at the upcoming Kung Fu competition. There, the lesson of true Kung Fu will be witnessed, learned and respected by all.

Overbrook Entertainment, Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, Sony Pictures Releasing
Director: Harald Zwart
Writers: Chris Murphy, Christopher Murphey
Producers: Jerry Weintraub, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith

I viewed 10/10